Travel aid for legislators up three times

Nagpur: In a threefold hike, the legislative assembly has approved Rs 20 per km travel allowance to MLAs for attending sessions of the legislature and official government meetings, which was earlier Rs 6 per km. Due to the hike in fuel prices, the allowance was increased, said parliamentary affairs minister Girish Bapat. The bill was passed without much discussion.

Bapat proposed the bill for amendment to The Maharashtra Legislature Member’s Salaries and Allowances Act in the assembly.

Due to the increase in travel expenses, the financial burden is estimated to rise by Rs 37,10,840 said Mr Bapat.

Members of the legislature are currently getting a travel allowance of Rs 6 per km, for carrying out government business where sessions or duties are held. The travel allowance is also given for members to reach out to their constituencies. They also avail of free air, railway and state transport bus travel under certain conditions.

After the hike in fuel prices, their allowance has been increased up to Rs 20 per km, Bapat said in the assembly. Members of the legislature are also given medical reimbursements, allowances for personal assistants, and other expenses. According to sources, an increase in travel allowance will encourage members to connect with people.